Fiji Battles Twin Crises: Meth Addiction and HIV Surge

Fiji faces dual crises of rising methamphetamine addiction and surging HIV infections, exacerbated by foreign drug cartels. The crisis strains health and justice systems, with dire implications for healthcare infrastructure. Comprehensive, coordinated responses involving international and regional partners are crucial to address these interconnected issues and aid national development.

Fiji is grappling with a dual crisis: escalating methamphetamine addiction and a surge in HIV infections. Foreign drug cartels have turned the island nation into a staging post for their operations, now impacting local communities. This has placed immense strain on Fiji's overstretched health and justice sectors.

Methamphetamine, known locally as "ice," is highly addictive and increasingly linked to risky behaviors, including needle sharing and "chemsex." These practices contribute to the rising HIV rates, further burdening the country's underfunded and ill-equipped healthcare infrastructure.

The dire state of healthcare facilities, compounded by years of neglect and staff shortages, hampers effective response to the crisis. Collaborative efforts with international partners, including the UN's AIDS programme, aim to develop holistic strategies to tackle these intertwined issues.

(With inputs from agencies.)